Methods for Diagnosing Interaction Strategies

Abstract

Methods for the analysis of group processes at the behavioral and content level of social interaction are demonstrated using group interactions in conflict situations. A conceptual framework for behavioral strategies in conflict interactions is presented. Index variables for these strategies are defined on the basis of sequential interaction patterns. An experimental study is conducted on how interaction strategies in conflict situations vary with aspects of group composition. Four groups with two male and two female members each were formed varying the dimensions “gender” and “attitudes toward the male and female gender role” (traditional versus progressive). The groups were given a discussion task in which the differences in attitudes create a conflict situation. An analysis of interaction strategies indicated a more pronounced polarization in subgroups in the first condition. A detailed single case study illustrates the diagnostic power of the analytic methods in revealing different strategies of conflict management.